Deaconess Joeann (Reese) Taylor

Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. [6] In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

Proverbs 3:5-6

With humbled submission to the will of God, we stand with this precious this family to honor the life of Joeann Reese Taylor, who was born on the 23rd day of October 1954, in Greensville County, Virginia to the parentage of Ardee and Virgie Wilks Reese. During the earlier years of her life, she accepted Christ and was baptized at the Greater Shiloh Baptist Church of Emporia, Virginia. 

        Joeann graduated from Greensville County High School. After completing her studies there, she ventured out to New Jersey to further her studies. As life progressed, Joeann saw the need to return to Virginia, she then joined the staff at Fort Lee Military Base in Petersburg, Virginia and served there for 19 years. She went on to work for Greensville Correctional Facility in Jarratt, where she retired after 13 years.  On Friday, May 8, 1998, Joeann united in Holy Matrimony with the love of her life and soulmate, Jerry M. Taylor. This love and bond of marriage continue for over 22 years. 

        Joeann later united in Christian fellowship with the Jerusalem Baptist Church of Jarratt, Virginia. It was there that her love for God was deepened and spiritual gifts nurtured. While on her spiritual journey, Joeann was consecrated as a Deaconess. She held this consecration in very high regard, as she was often called upon for guidance and wisdom. Joeann also served as a member of the choir.  

        Joeann reserved much respect and love for God, but also for loved her family, friends and community. She was loved by many and never met a stranger. She had a smile that would brighten up any room and a heart of gold that would lend a helping hand to those in need. She was passionate  about meeting new people and being involved with others. Embracing this quality she decided to become a member of the Order of Easter Star of Virginia (Jarratt Chapter #185), where she was the Sitting Associate Matron. The mantra of her life was, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others. - Ghandi” These words led her to pursue membership of two other houses, Heroines of Jericho and Cyrenes. 

        Joeann took pleasure in serving her community and she did so in a plethora of ways. Her life was filled with compassion and a huge heart to match. Her unwavering passion allowed her to accomplish much in life, most notably becoming an entrepreneur and owing her own decorating business called “Linens & Things.”

        “Upon life’s journey, we are given opportunities to plant seeds of goodness, seeds of kindness, and seeds of blessings that bestow our hearts, our work, and our being. For those that sow the fields with loving generosity, so shall they reap the abundant harvest of eternal life.” On Friday, April 17, 2020; our dear loved one, peacefully slipped into eternal slumber while in the care of Southside Regional Medical Center, Petersburg, Virginia.  Her seeds are well sown, her service on earth is complete, and she now experiences the victory and triumph of eternal life. Prior to her transition, God also called her sister Colleen Hunnicutt on April 15, 2020 for they both are now resting in the arms of the Lord. 

        Every Christmas, every birthday, every Mother's Day, you’ll be missed. Every family reunion, every Thanksgiving, you’ll  be missed.  Yesterday, today, tomorrow, everyday,  You’ll  be missed.  In our hearts, in our minds, in our souls, you’ll  always be missed. We who are bound to keep her memories of love are: her husband, Jerry M. Taylor of the home; sons, Donnell L. Reese of Nashville, North Carolina, Jerry T. Taylor of Sandstone, Virginia, and Timothy M. Taylor of Emporia, Virginia; daughters, Tina Reese of Emporia, Virginia, Felice Taylor Lucas of Jarratt, Virginia, Daphine Taylor of Carson, Virginia; mother, Virgie W. Reese of Emporia, Virginia; siblings, Calvin Reese of Emporia, Virginia, Maryleen Pope (Joe) of Chesterfield, Virginia and Teresa Brown (Lafayette) of Richmond, Virginia; sixteen grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; a brother-in-law, Walter L. Hunnicutt of Emporia, Virginia a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Relatives and Friends are encouraged to visit Deaconess Taylor's tribute wall to share memories, extend condolences and to order floral tributes, as sentiments to the family.  

The Management and Staff of Knox-High Mortuary, Inc. is privileged to provide

"Distinctive Services, With The Essence Of Excellence"

to the family of Deaconess Joeann Reese Taylor.

We ask that you join us in remembering the family in both thought and prayer. 

 "Diligent in Business; Fervent in Spirit." - Romans: 12:11

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Deaconess Joeann (Reese) Taylor, please visit our floral store.